Dogs abandoned at dam; now in shelter

Elaine Thompson TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF

Published Saturday January 25, 2014 at 2:29 pm

Updated Saturday January 25, 2014 at 2:57 pm

A family of five dogs was abandoned in the brutal cold at Westville Dam Thursday night. “I don't know who could possibly do something like that. It's really disgusting,” said Lyndsay M. Doray, adoption center manager at Second Chance Animal Shelter in nearby East Brookfield.

PHOTO/ SECOND CHANCE ANIMAL SHELTER

One of the dogs found in the cold.

A family of five dogs was abandoned in the brutal cold at Westville Dam Thursday night.

“I don't know who could possibly do something like that. It's really disgusting,” said Lyndsay M. Doray, adoption center manager at Second Chance Animal Shelter in nearby East Brookfield.

The golden retriever mix dogs – a father, mother, and three puppies, between 8 and 11 weeks - were brought to the shelter after they were spotted by someone walking their dogs. That person called the police.

Ms. Doray said the two older dogs were completely infested with fleas. The male had flea dermatitis, a skin condition caused by fleas.

“Both mom and dad were completely emaciated," she said. "The mother, you can count every rib in her body.”

She said the three puppies were infested with fleas and worms.

“The former owner should be embarrassed at the condition of the dogs,” she said.

Ms. Doray said since the story of the dogs was publicized, the phone at the shelter has been ringing nonstop. Homes have been found for each of the dogs after their health improves and the older dogs are spayed and neutered.

“They're so sweet. They just want to snuggle,” she said. “You go in there and they just swarm around you and just want to be loved.”

Ms. Doray said the dogs have been cleaned up and rid of fleas and worms. A veterinarian will examine the dogs on Monday.

The shelter has set up an account to generate $2,000 to pay for the medical costs.

Ms. Doray said money that is left over will help pay for medical care for other animals that come to the shelter.

“There are so many sad cases like this,” said Ms. Doray. “In this kind of weather your dogs shouldn't be going out for more than to go to the bathroom. It's too cold. If it's too cold that people don't want to go out there, it's too cold for them.”